Stories and facts

Derek Andrew Safo, known by his stage name Sway or Sway Dasafo, is a British rapper and producer of Ghanaian descent, born on September 5, 1982, in North London.

He developed a passion for music production while in school and was influenced by Bone Thugs N Harmony and UK drum and bass MCs.

Sway launched his own label, Dcypha Productions, and became the first unsigned rapper to win a MOBO Award before releasing his debut album This Is My Demo in 2006.

The album earned critical acclaim, sold over 50,000 copies in its first year, and featured the hit single Little Derek. He later signed with Akon’s Konvict Music and released The Signature LP in 2008, which produced tracks like Silver & Gold with Akon.

His collaborations have included work with Ed Sheeran, Mark Ronson, Childish Gambino, Sarkodie, and Lupe Fiasco, with singles such as Still Speedin’ and Level Up achieving UK chart success.

In 2013, he revived Dcypha Productions, signing artists like Tiggs Da Author and YouTube star KSI, while also releasing his third album Deliverance.

Sway went on to build New Reign Productions, nurturing creative talent across music and media, while also dedicating albums to his children.

He continues to work under the name Sway Dasafo, with a discography that includes This Is My Demo, The Signature LP, Deliverance, and Verses from the Vault.

Throughout his career, he has won multiple awards, including a MOBO Award, a BET Hip Hop Award, and recognition at the Ghana Music Awards, establishing his legacy as one of the UK’s most influential rappers of Ghanaian heritage.

Explore the life of Sway Dasafo below.